I’ve worked with some artists who just do not vibe with social media. And I think it’s safe to say that social media has changed a lot in recent years. Being on social media does mean that you are at the whims of what the platform chooses to do… whether that means they show more ads, videos or suggested posts. Or sometimes it means that your posts appear just after or before an ad that has nothing to do with your art practice (mattresses/raincoats/insurance?!). That can be really frustrating.
So… as an artist, how do you share your practice with audiences in ways that might exist outside of social media?
Start small…
It is absolutely fine to start small… like really small. I often ask artists: ‘if you could just have 10 people on your mailing list, who would they be?’.
Once you have these 10 or so people in mind, research them online and go directly to them! Tell them who you are (independent artist/curator/producer etc.) and invite them to join your list. Tell them why you want them to hear about the amazing work you’re doing. If this makes you nervous, remember - these people love art! Often the best part of working as a producer or curator is working directly with artists. At the very least your name will get in front of the people who matter to you.
And when you are away from social media, no-one knows how many people are ‘following you’ or on your mailing list. That info is just for you! So don’t stress if your list starts small. It will grow over time and often having a small group of engaged followers us more valuable than a long list of people what aren’t super engaged.
In my next post, I’ll share some ideas about what to put in your artist newsletter.
Do you have an artist newsletter? What does it look like for you? Where did you start out and how has it evolved? Please share :)
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